Duke Kroger shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Duke, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’d have to truly say it’s what I’ve left behind on my own journey. I’ve had a lot of successful cooks and Sous Chefs that come to me or reach out down the line that found success in what they were taught or simple life lessons I was able to pass on. A kitchen is tribal, we’re all learning from our elders to try and right the path we’re on ourselves and avoid the pitfalls of those before us. I’ve had a lot of success being able to nurture good people, not just good chefs.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Duke Kroger and I’m a Father, Chef, Pitmaster, and Motorcycle Enthusiast, I’m getting used to wearing all the hats these days. I’ve spent over a decade in the industry already as an executive chef and culinary consultant, all while recovering from a life of violence, addiction, and egomania for lack of better term. My belief and my “brand” is no one is most saving, making better, and guiding to a better shore.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
This is actually a funny one, because growing up I always wanted to be a doctor. My mom, my family as well as myself pushed it for years. I found my calling in food after incarceration, it was at first an “only option” in my mind that grew into the thing that eventually saved my life and cleaned up own existence. I think we all battle change everyday in some way but always strive to be better than yesterday. That’s my reality these days.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Once I was able to separate and cope with a lot of trauma that was morphing my own identity, I was really able to find myself. Turning all that rage and aggression into a tool to create was pivotal for me, especially coming from an outlaw motorcycle scene where power was in fear and control rather than respect most times. I found power in the ability to guide others and share life experiences.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
This one’s funny and I’ll call out a friend of mine, Tank Jackson. Tank is a big farmer here locally I’ve been lucky enough to call a friend over the years. He’s one of those guys that is 100% uniquely himself no matter what. I mean one of the top leaders in natural farmer here in the southeast and especially SC, used to make hog drops in a stretch Cadillac limo with bull horns and hop out in an airbrushed kitten shirt with his name. He’s the real deal most interesting man alive lol.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people will talk about the good left, not the good left undone. I’ve done my best to push those around me to do what they want and chase dreams not dragons. I hope they remember me for my grind and versatility in this field, I’ve had to adapt many times and have been successful rolling with punches that should’ve knocked me out. This culture means everything to me and if that’s how they remember me I’m good with it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ChefDukeKroger
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
